Adjustable support arm

ABSTRACT

An adjustable support arm capable of providing users with a wide range of height, depth, tilt, and swivel options. The adjustable support arm may comprise an arm assembly releasably mounted to a base assembly. In further embodiments, the adjustable support arm may also comprise an articulating joint connected to the arm assembly, and an accessory bracket assembly connected to the articulating joint. A quick-release joint comprising a spring-loaded pivot latch may be utilized to releasably connect the arm assembly to the base assembly. To dampen side-to-side movement of the arm assembly, the adjustable support arm may also comprise a friction cartridge assembly comprising a taper-lock bushing and one or more set screws. A ring-shaped, adjustable panning insert can be coupled to the arm assembly to restrict the range of side-to-side motion of the support arm. The adjustable arm can further comprise a quick-release accessory fastening mechanism for easy removal and attachment of a mounted object (e.g., an electronic display, keyboard, or other item) to the support arm.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Adjustable support arms allow mounted objects such as electronicdisplays, keyboards, or other items to be moved to the appropriateergonomic position relative to the user. By enabling users to align themonitor at the correct height for them, adjustable support armsencourage a healthier, more ergonomic working posture which helpsprevent eye and neck strain. Additionally, they preserve preciousworkspace by floating the monitor above the user's work surface.

In today's modern workplace, adjustable support arms must provide userswith a wide range of height, depth, and angle adjustments. For example,when changing from a seated position to a standing position atheight-adjustable desks, users oftentimes will desire that the monitor,keyboard and other equipment be at adjusted to different positions.Similarly, where the concept of hot-desking is employed in theworkplace, a given workstation must be capable of accommodatingdifferent users of different sizes throughout the workday. Accordingly,an adjustable support arm offering improved adjustability over a widerange of travel would be beneficial.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention disclosed herein is generally directed to an adjustablesupport arm capable of providing users with a wide range of height,depth, tilt, and swivel options for the side-to-side, front-to-back, andup-to-down movements that the modern workspace requires. An adjustablesupport arm exemplifying the principles of the present invention cancomprise one or more of the following features: a quick-release jointfor enabling easy removal and attachment of the arm assembly to the baseassembly; a friction cartridge assembly for connecting the arm assemblyto the base assembly in a manner which reduces slack in the joint; anadjustable panning insert for adjusting the side-to-side range of motionof the support arm; a bearing positioned in the hub of the base assemblyfor reducing the amount of force required to adjust the side-to-sidemotion of the support arm as well as the amount of force required todetach the arm assembly from the base assembly; a quick-releaseaccessory fastening mechanism for easy removal and attachment of amounted accessory (e.g., an electronic display, keyboard, or otherobject) to the support arm; and an accessory bracket assembly formounting both primary and secondary accessories to the adjustablesupport arm.

In an embodiment exemplifying the principles of the invention, theadjustable support arm can comprise an arm assembly releasably mountedto a base assembly. The adjustable support arm optionally may alsocomprise an articulating joint connected to the arm assembly, and anaccessory bracket assembly connected to the articulating joint.

In a further embodiment exemplifying the principles of the invention,the adjustable support arm may also comprise a quick-release joint forreleasably connect the arm assembly to the base assembly. Thequick-release joint may comprise a spring-loaded latch coupled to thebase assembly which releasably engages an indentation in a connectorshaft secured to the arm assembly, thus locking the arm assembly intoconnection with the base assembly. In embodiments whereby the armassembly comprises a first arm mounted to a second arm, a quick-releasejoint may also be utilized to releasably connect the arms.

In another embodiment exemplifying the principles of the invention, theadjustable support arm may also include a friction cartridge assemblyfor dampening side-to-side movement of the arm assembly and reducingslack in the joints. The friction cartridge assembly may comprise ataper-lock bushing surrounding a portion of the connector shaft. Setscrews positioned adjacent to the taper-lock bushing can be utilized tocause the taper-lock bushing to deflect inward towards the connectorshaft as the set screws are driven inward, thus increasing the frictionbetween the connector shaft and the taper-lock bushing and, in turn,dampening the side-to-side movement of the arm assembly.

In yet another embodiment exemplifying the principles of the invention,the adjustable support arm may also include a ring-shaped, adjustablepanning insert coupled to the arm assembly for restricting the range ofside-to-side motion of the support arm. The adjustable panning insertcan comprise first and second male splines positioned in a stackedorientation around the inner wall of the adjustable panning insert. Theadjustable panning insert also includes first and second projectionspositioned in a spaced relation around the circumference of theadjustable panning insert and extending in the vertical plane. Inoperation, a user can elect the preferred range of side-to-side motionof the support arm by adjusting the orientation of the adjustablepanning insert relative to its housing formed in the base assemblyand/or the first arm. By having the first projection spaced apart fromthe second projection along the circumference of the adjustable panninginsert, a user will have three swivel settings (e.g., 90°, 180°, and360° rotation) based upon the adjustable panning insert's orientation inthe housing.

In yet another embodiment exemplifying the principles of the invention,the adjustable support arm may also include a quick-release accessoryfastening mechanism for easy removal and attachment of an accessory(e.g., an electronic display, keyboard, or other object) to theadjustable support arm. The accessory fastening mechanism can comprisespring-loaded latch and a hook. An accessory can be secured to thesupport arm by first coupling the hook to the upper portion of theaccessory's mounting bracket and then coupling the spring-loaded latchto the lower portion of the accessory's mounting bracket.

In yet another embodiment exemplifying the principles of the invention,the adjustable support arm may also include an accessory bracketassembly having tubular mounts for attaching secondary accessories tothe adjustable support arm. One or more accessory brackets can becoupled to the tubular mount(s) to provide a frame for mountingsecondary accessories such as paper holders, lights, and the like.

The above summary is not intended to describe each embodiment or everypossible implementation. These and other features, aspects, andadvantages of the present invention will become better understood withregard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanyingdrawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals refer toidentical or functionally similar elements throughout the separateviews, which are not true to scale, and which, together with thedetailed description below, are incorporated in and form part of thespecification, serve to illustrate further various exemplary embodimentsand to explain various principles and advantages in accordance with thepresent invention:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of anadjustable support arm of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a front, partially exploded perspective view of the adjustablesupport arm shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a rear, partially exploded perspective view of the support armshown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4A is a rear perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a quickrelease joint useful for releasably connecting the second arm to thefirst arm of the adjustable support arm shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the quick release joint shown inFIG. 4A;

FIG. 4C is a cross-sectional view of the quick release joint shown inFIG. 4A;

FIG. 5A is a rear perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a quickrelease joint useful for releasably connecting the arm assembly to abase assembly of the adjustable support arm shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5B is a side, partially transparent view of the quick release jointshown in FIG. 5A;

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a frictioncartridge assembly useful for connecting the arm assembly to the baseassembly in a manner which reduces slack in the joint;

FIG. 6B is cross-sectional view of the friction cartridge assembly shownin FIG. 6A;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a quickrelease joint useful for releasably connecting the sections of theadjustable support arm shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 8A is a partially exploded, perspective view of an exemplaryembodiment of an adjustable panning insert useful for adjusting theside-to-side range of motion of the arm assembly of the adjustablesupport arm shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 8B is a partially exploded, perspective view of the adjustablepanning insert shown in FIG. 8A;

FIG. 8C is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the housingformed in the upper end of the first arm adapted for receiving theadjustable panning insert;

FIG. 8D is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the housingformed in the lower bracket of the second arm adapted for receiving theadjustable panning insert;

FIG. 8E is a partially exploded, perspective view of the adjustablepanning insert shown in FIG. 8A in reverse orientation;

FIG. 8F is a partially exploded, perspective view of the adjustablepanning insert shown in FIG. 8A in reverse orientation;

FIG. 8G is a top view of the adjustable panning insert shown in FIG. 8A;

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of theaccessory bracket assembly connected to an exemplary embodiment of thearticulating joint of an adjustable support arm of the presentinvention;

FIG. 9B is a partially exploded, perspective view of an exemplaryembodiment of the accessory bracket assembly and the articulating joint;

FIG. 9C is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of thequick-release accessory fastening mechanism useful for releasablyconnecting the accessory bracket assembly to the articulating joint;

FIG. 9D is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of theaccessory bracket assembly;

FIG. 9E is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of theaccessory bracket assembly utilizing an adaptor bracket;

FIG. 9F is a rear perspective view of the alternative embodiment of theaccessory bracket assembly depicted in FIG. 9E;

FIG. 9G is a rear perspective view of an alternative embodiment of theaccessory bracket assembly utilizing an offset VESA bracket;

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of theaccessory bracket assembly;

FIG. 10B is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of theaccessory bracket assembly;

FIG. 10C is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of theaccessory bracket assembly;

FIG. 10D is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of theaccessory bracket assembly;

FIG. 10E is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of theaccessory bracket assembly;

FIG. 11A is a perspective view of the exemplary adjustable support armshown in FIG. 1 but with an alternative embodiment of the accessorybracket assembly comprising a horizontal crossbar;

FIG. 11B is a perspective view of the exemplary adjustable support armshown in FIG. 1 but with an alternative embodiment of the accessorybracket assembly comprising a vertical crossbar;

FIG. 11C is a perspective view of the exemplary adjustable support armshown in FIG. 1 but with an alternative embodiment of the accessorybracket assembly comprising a vertical crossbar and a second accessorysupport mounted thereto;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the baseassembly suitable for use with the adjustable support arm of the presentinvention;

FIG. 13A is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of thearticulating joint suitable for use with the adjustable support arm ofthe present invention;

FIG. 13B is an exploded view of an alternative embodiment of thearticulating joint suitable depicted in FIG. 13A;

FIG. 14A is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of thebase assembly suitable for use with the adjustable support arm of thepresent invention;

FIG. 14B is a rear perspective view of the alternative embodiment of thearticulating joint suitable for use with the adjustable support arm ofthe present invention;

FIG. 15 is a rear perspective view of another alternative embodiment ofthe base assembly suitable for use with the adjustable support arm ofthe present invention; and

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a staticarm suitable for use with the adjustable support arm of the presentinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein.However, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments aremerely exemplary of the invention, which can be embodied in variousforms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosedherein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis forthe claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in theart to variously employ the present invention in virtually anyappropriately detailed structure. Alternate embodiments may be devisedwithout departing from the spirit or the scope of the invention.Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to belimiting, but rather, to provide an understandable description of theinvention. While the specification concludes with claims defining thefeatures of the invention that are regarded as novel, it is believedthat the invention will be better understood from a consideration of thefollowing description in conjunction with the drawing figures, in whichlike reference numerals are carried forward.

As used herein, the terms “a” or “an” are defined as one or more. Theterm “plurality,” as used herein, is defined as two or more. The term“another,” as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. Theterms “comprises,” “comprising,” or any other variation thereof areintended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process,method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does notinclude only those elements, but may include other elements notexpressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, orapparatus. An element proceeded by “comprises . . . a” does not, withoutmore constraints, preclude the existence of additional identicalelements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprisesthe element. The terms “including,” “having,” or “featuring,” as usedherein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language). The term“coupled,” as used herein, is defined as connected, although notnecessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically. As used herein,the term “about” or “approximately” applies to all numeric values,whether or not explicitly indicated. These terms generally refer to arange of numbers that one of skill in the art would consider equivalentto the recited values (i.e., having the same function or result). Inmany instances these terms may include numbers that are rounded to thenearest significant figure. Relational terms such as first and second,upper and lower, top and bottom, right and left, and the like may beused solely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity oraction without necessarily requiring or implying any actual suchrelationship or order between such entities or actions.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-3, an exemplary embodiment of an adjustablesupport arm 1 of the present invention is shown. In the exemplaryembodiment depicted in FIGS. 1-3, the adjustable support arm 1 maycomprise a base assembly 10, an arm assembly (20, 30) releasably mountedto the base assembly 10, an articulating joint 40 connected to the armassembly (20, 30), and an accessory bracket assembly 50 connected to thearticulating joint 40. In the exemplary embodiment depicted in FIGS.1-3, the arm assembly may comprise a second arm 30 releasably mounted toa first arm 20. In the depicted exemplary embodiment, the second arm 30is a dynamic arm while the first arm 20 is a static arm. The dynamic armallows a user to optimize both the vertical and horizontal positioningof the accessory bracket assembly 50 relative to the user, thusproviding the adjustable support arm 1 a wide range of heightadjustability. In certain embodiments, the dynamic arm can be acounter-balanced, parallelogram support arm, such as U.S. Pat. No.9,657,889 to Chumakov, the disclosure and all of the contents of whichare incorporated herein by reference. In other embodiments, the dynamicarm 30 can be a single bar, pivot arm or any other known dynamic armcapable of providing height adjustability. The static arm can be a riserarm (e.g., FIGS. 1-3) designed to further optimize the vertical andhorizontal positioning of the accessory bracket assembly 50, or thestatic arm can be a horizontal extension arm (e.g., FIG. 16) adapted foradjusting the horizontal positioning of the accessory bracket assembly50 and any attached accessory relative to the base assembly 10. Inalternative embodiments, the arm assembly can comprise a first arm only,with the first arm being either a dynamic arm or a static arm releasablymounted directly to the base assembly 10. In further alternativeembodiments, the adjustable support arm 1 can optionally exclude boththe second arm 30 and the articulating joint 40, with the first arm 20having one end connected to the base assembly 10 and the other endconnected to the accessory bracket assembly 50. The base assembly 10functions to mount the adjustable support arm 1 to a work surface orother fixture, such as a slat wall. Referring to the exemplaryembodiment depicted in FIGS. 1-3, the base assembly 10 may comprise abase plate 13 adapted to be positioned on the top of a work surface 3, apost 14 extending upward from the base plate 13, a clamp bracket 11attached to the base plate 13 and extending below the work surface, anda screw 12 threadingly engaged with the clamp bracket 11. In order tosecure the base assembly 10 to a work surface, the user can rotate thescrew 12 until the screw's distal end comes into contact with theunderside of the work surface. The exemplary embodiment of the baseassembly 10 depicted in FIGS. 1-3 is configured to be mounted to thework surface 3 of an office desk. However, a skilled artisan willrecognize that the base assembly 10 can be alternatively configured tobe mounted to a wall or other fixture. For example, FIGS. 14A and 14Bdepict a base assembly 1000 configured for attachment to a slatwall. Thebase assembly 1000 can comprise first and second protrusions 1005,1007adapted to engage grooves in a slatwall. The base assembly 1000 canfurther comprise a post 1014 housing a first release joint 100 and apanning insert as shown. FIG. 15 depicts an exemplary base assembly 1100comprising a mounting plate 1105 and a plurality of screws 1106 formounting the adjustable support arm 1 directly to a wall. Additionally,as shown in FIG. 12, each of the various embodiments of the baseassembly may be configured to comprise two or more posts 14 a,14 b forattaching multiple arm assemblies to the base assembly, and the postsmay contain the panning inserts.

Still referring to the exemplary embodiment depicted FIGS. 1-3, a firstend 21 of the first arm 20 can be releasably attached to the post 14utilizing a first connector shaft 80 coupled to a first release joint100. As described in greater detail herein, the first release joint 100may engage the first connector shaft 80 to secure the first arm 20 tothe post 14 of the base assembly 10. To disengage the first releasejoint 100 from the first connector shaft 80 and remove the first arm 20,a user can access the first release joint 100 through a slot 17positioned on the posterior side 14 p of the post 14. In alternativeembodiments, the slot 17 through which the first release joint 100 isaccessed can be positioned on the anterior side 14 a of the post 14, oron any other side of the post. In certain embodiments, the first arm 20may be attached to the base assembly 10 in a manner allowing a user theability to adjust the front-to-back positioning (i.e., depth) of thesupport arm 1 by rotating the first arm 20 about its connection to thebase assembly 10. In other embodiments, the first arm 20 may be attachedto the base assembly 10 in a manner preventing rotation of the first arm20 relative to the base assembly 10. Still referring to the exemplaryembodiment depicted in FIGS. 1-3, the second arm 30 can comprise aparallelogram linkage 31 having a first end 32 pivotally attached to alower bracket 34 and a second end 33 pivotally attached to an upperbracket 35. The lower bracket 34 of the second arm 30 can be releasablyattached to the second end 22 of the first arm 20 utilizing a secondconnector shaft 81 coupled to a second release joint 200. To disengagethe second release joint 200 from the second connector shaft 81 andremove the second arm 30, a user can access the second release joint 200through a slot 25 formed on the posterior side 22 p of the second end 22of the first arm 20. In alternative embodiments, the user can access thesecond release joint 200 through a slot 25 formed on the anterior side22 a of the second end 22 of the first arm 20, or on any other side ofthe second end 22 of the first arm 20.

The articulating joint 40 functions to provide the attached accessorybracket assembly 50 a wide range of adjustability, such aspanning/swiveling (i.e., a left or right angled movement), tilting(i.e., an upward or downward angled movement), and/or rotation (i.e.,turning from landscape to portrait view). Referring to the exemplaryembodiment depicted in FIGS. 1-3, the articulating joint 40 can comprisea swivel ring 41, a tilt ring 42 attached to the swivel ring 41, and amounting plate 44 attached to the tilt ring 42. The swivel ring 41 canbe attached to the upper bracket 35 via a swivel pin 36 so as to allowside-to-side panning movement. The mounting plate 44 can be attached tothe tilt ring 42 via a tilt pin 43 so as to allow up-to-down tiltingmovement. In alternative embodiments, the articulating joint 40 can takeon a variety of forms. For example, a turret-style articulating joint 40is depicted in FIG. 13A. The turret-style articulating joint 40 cancomprise a turret 48 capable of being secured to the second arm 30, atilt hub 49 pivotally attached to the turret 48, and a mounting plate 44attached to the tilt hub 49.

The accessory bracket assembly 50 can be releasably attached to themounting plate 44. An embodiment of the accessory bracket assembly 50 isdepicted in FIGS. 10A and 10B. The accessory bracket assembly 50 cancomprise a central bracket 51 positioned within a frame 56. The frame 56may comprise a VESA plate adhering to the standards created by the VideoElectronics Standards Association, but can comprise other plates ormounts suitable for mounting various electronic equipment, includingApple® products. The frame 56 has an inner cavity for housing thecentral bracket 51. The frame 56 can be secured to the central bracket51 with one or more fasteners. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 9Band 10A-10B, the frame 56 comprises a 100×100 VESA plate. Selectalternative embodiments of the accessory bracket assembly 50 aredepicted in FIGS. 9D-9G. FIG. 9D shows an alternative embodiment of theaccessory bracket assembly whereby a 100×200 frame 58 is attached to thecentral bracket 51. As shown in the alternative embodiment depicted inFIGS. 9E and 9F, an adaptor bracket may be attached to the centralbracket 51 to allow for non-VESA compliant accessories to be mounted tothe support arm 1. FIG. 9G depicts an alternative embodiment of theaccessory bracket assembly 50 whereby an offset central bracket 51comprising a horizontal beam 55 is pivotally attached to a VESA bracket59, thereby allowing the accessory mounted to the VESA bracket 59 to bepositioned in an offset orientation relative to the offset centralbracket 51. As shown, any suitable frame or bracket can be utilized toattach the desired accessories to the monitor arm of the invention.

The adjustable support arm 1 may comprise one or more quick-releasejoints for releasably connecting the components of the adjustablesupport arm 1. For example, a first quick-release joint 100 may beutilized to releasably connect the arm assembly 20,30 to the baseassembly 10, while a second quick-release joint 200 may be utilized toreleasably connect the second arm 30 to the first arm 20 in embodimentswhere a second arm 30 is utilized.

Referring to FIGS. 4A-4C, an exemplary embodiment of the second releasejoint 200 useful for releasably connecting the second arm 30 to thefirst arm 20 of the adjustable support arm 1 is shown. The secondrelease joint 200 can comprise a latch 210, an axle 215, and a spring217. The latch 210 can comprise an upper portion 211, a lower portion212 having a protrusion 218, and an aperture 213 positioned between theupper and lower portions 211, 212. The latch 210 can be pivotallyconnected to the second end 22 of the first arm 20 via an axle 215extending through the aperture 213, with the axle 215 functioning as afulcrum about which the latch 210 pivots. Meanwhile, the connector shaft81 can be secured within the central chamber 37 of the lower bracket 34by any means known in the art, such as via a bolt or by way of apressure fitting.

In operation, a user can attach the second arm 30 to the first arm 20 bysliding the connector shaft 81 into the central bore 23 formed in thesecond end 22 of the static arm 20. A spring 217 can be positionedbetween the static arm 20 and the upper portion 211 of the latch 210 tobias the latch's protrusion 218 into engagement with the indentation 84,thus locking the second arm 30 into connection with the first arm 20.When the support arm 1 is swiveled from side-to-side, the connectorshaft 81 will move relative to the central bore 23 formed in the secondend 22 of the first arm 20, with the connector shaft 81 and the centralbore 23 preferably being in frictional engagement to minimize slack inthe joint and provide damping. To detach the second arm 30, a user canaccess the second release joint 200 through the slot 25 formed in thesecond end of the first arm 20. By pressing the upper portion 211 inwardrelative to the first arm 20, the latch 210 will rotate about the axisand thus cause the protrusion 218 to disengage from the indentation 84in the connector shaft 81, thus allowing the user to lift the second arm30 from the central bore 23 formed in the second end 22 of the first arm20. In alternative embodiments, the protrusion 218 can be formed in theupper portion 211 instead of the lower portion 212 as depicted in FIGS.4A-4C. In alternative embodiments, the spring 217 can comprise a leafspring, a Belleville spring, or any other spring known in the art.Further, the latch 210 can be any suitable shape known in the art toachieve the functions described above.

Referring to FIGS. 5A-5B, an exemplary embodiment of the first releasejoint 100 useful for releasably connecting the arm assembly 20, 30 tothe base assembly 10 of the adjustable support arm 1 is shown. The firstrelease joint 100 shown in FIGS. 5A-5B is substantially similar to theexemplary embodiment of the second release joint 200 shown in FIGS.4A-4C, with reference numerals for like components differing by 100. Inoperation, a user can attach the first arm 20 to the post 14 by slidingthe connector shaft 80 into the central bore 17 formed in the post 14 ofthe base assembly 10.

Referring now to FIG. 7, an alternative embodiment of a release jointsuitable for releasably connecting the components of the adjustablesupport arm 1 is shown. The release joint 250 depicted in FIG. 7 isshown releasably connecting the second arm 30 to the first arm 20,although a skilled artisan will readily recognize that the release joint250 could be utilized to releasably connect the first arm 20 to the baseassembly 10 as well. Referring to FIG. 7, the release joint 250 cancomprise a latch 260 and roller balls 271, 272 positioned in a passage28 that extends into the central bore 23 of the first arm 20, with anidentical latch and roller balls optionally positioned on an opposingsecond side of the first arm 20. The latch 260 can comprise an upperportion 261 and a lower portion 262, with the upper portion 261 having aprotrusion 268 defining a linear cam surface adapted for selectivelyengaging the roller ball 271. The latch 260 can be slidingly attached tothe second end 22 of the first arm 20 by, for example, having alongitudinal flange on the latch 260 engaging a slot integrated into thesecond end 22 of the first arm 20. In operation, a user can attach thesecond arm 30 to the first arm 20 by sliding the connector shaft 81 intothe central bore 23 formed in the second end 22 of the first arm 20. Tosecure the second arm 30 in place, the user can slide the latch 260upwards relative to the base assembly 10, thereby causing the linear camsurface of the protrusion 268 to engage the roller ball 271 and causethe roller ball 271 to move inward within the passage 28 towards thecentral bore 23. This in turn will force the roller ball 272 to alsomove inward within the passage 28 and into engagement with theindentation 84 in the connector shaft 81, thus securing the second arm30 in place. In certain embodiments, a spring can be utilized to biasthe latch 260 upwards relative to the base assembly 10, therebydispensing with the necessity for the user to slide the latch 260 tosecure the second arm 30. To detach the second arm 30, the user canslide the latch 260 downwards relative to the base assembly 10, therebycausing the linear cam surface of the protrusion 268 to disengage fromthe roller ball 271. This will allow the roller balls 271, 272 to moveoutward within the passage 28 and have the roller ball 272 disengagefrom the indentation 84 in the connector shaft 81. In furtheralternative embodiments of the release joint 250, the protrusion 268 canbe formed in the lower portion 262 of the latch 260 instead of the upperportion 261 as depicted in FIG. 7. Moreover, in further alternativeembodiments, the biasing spring can bias the latch 260 downwardsrelative to the base assembly 10 as opposed to upwards.

Referring to FIGS. 6A-6B, an exemplary embodiment of a frictioncartridge assembly 300 is shown. The friction cartridge assembly may beutilized as an alternative means for coupling the joints of theadjustable support arm 1. The friction cartridge assembly 300 functionsto dampen side-to-side movement of the arm assembly 20, 30 usingfriction, while also reducing slack in the joint(s) of the adjustablesupport arm 1. In FIGS. 6A-6B, the friction cartridge assembly 300 isdepicted as being utilized in the joint formed by the second arm 30 andthe first arm 20 of the arm assembly. However, an identical frictioncartridge assembly 300 can be utilized in the joint formed by the firstarm 20 and the base assembly 10. Similarly, in embodiments whereby thearm assembly consists of a second arm 30 only, a friction cartridgeassembly 300 can be utilized in the joint formed by the second arm 30and the base assembly 10.

Referring to FIGS. 6A-6B, the friction cartridge assembly 300 cancomprise a taper-lock bushing 310 and set screws 335,337. The taper-lockbushing 310 may feature an outer profile adapted to frictionally engagea tapered, internal central chamber 37 formed in the lower bracket 34 ofthe second arm 30, and the taper-lock bushing 310 may feature an innerprofile adapted to frictionally engage the connector shaft 81.Meanwhile, the set screws 335,337 function to secure the taper-lockbushing 310 into place within the central chamber 37 of the lowerbracket 34, while also functioning to adjust the friction applied by thetaper-lock bushing 310 to the connector shaft 81. In operation, a shapedend (e.g., polygon-shaped) of the connector shaft 81 will mate with acongruent seat in the central bore 23 to fix the connector shaft 81 inplace such that the connector shaft 81 does not rotate relative to thefirst arm 20 when the support arm 1 is swiveled from side-to-side. Asthe support arm 1 is swiveled from side-to-side, the connector shaft 81will remain stationary due to the shaped end of the connector shaft 81being mated with a congruent seat in the central bore 23 of the firstarm 20. However, the taper-lock bushing 310 will rotate with the lowerbracket 34 of the second arm 30 as it is swiveled from side-to-side,with the friction between the connector shaft 81 and the taper-lockbushing 310 functioning to dampen this side-to-side movement.

A user can secure the taper-lock bushing 310 within the central chamber37 of the lower bracket 34 by driving the set screws 335,336 intothreaded apertures 36 a,36 b formed in the lower bracket 34. In thisexemplary embodiment, the distal ends of the set screws 335,336 willabut the shoulders 313 of the taper-lock bushing 310 and force thetapered, upper portion 315 of the taper-lock bushing 310 into wedgingengagement with the tapered, central chamber 37 of the lower bracket 34.A user can also optimize the friction applied by the taper-lock bushing310 to the connector shaft 81 by driving the set screws 335,336 intothreaded apertures 36 a,36 b formed in the lower bracket 34. As the setscrews 335,336 are driven into the threaded apertures 366 a,366 b, thelower portion 311 of the taper-lock bushing 310 will deflect inwardtowards the connector shaft 81, thus increasing the friction between theconnector shaft 81 and the taper-lock bushing 310.

Referring now to FIGS. 8A-8G, an exemplary embodiment of an adjustablepanning insert 700 suitable for adjusting the range of side-to-side(i.e., panning or swiveling) motion of the support arm 1 is depicted.The adjustable panning insert 700 may be a ring-shaped, hollow cylinderhaving an outer wall 701, an inner wall 702, a first end 704, and asecond end 705. The adjustable panning insert can be other shapes,including but not limited to a sphere, prism, or cube. In oneembodiment, the adjustable panning insert 700 further defines a radialplane and a longitudinal plane. The inner wall 702 can comprise a firstspline 710 and a second spline 712 positioned adjacent to one anotheralong the surface of the inner wall 702 and each comprising teeth 714extending inward from the inner wall 702. The first spline 710 ispositioned proximate to the first end 704, and the second spline 712 ispositioned proximate to the second end 705. The adjustable panninginsert 700 may further comprise first and second projections 715,716spaced apart along the circumference of the second end 705 and extendingvertically therefrom; i.e., the first and second projections 715,716extend in a direction that is perpendicular to the radial plane of theadjustable panning insert 700. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 8A-8Band 8E-8G, the first projection 715 is spaced apart from the secondprojection 716 along the circumference of the second end 705 of theadjustable panning insert 700 by approximately 90 degrees relative tothe center of the adjustable panning insert 700 (See FIG. 8G). In analternative embodiment, the first projection 715 can be spaced apartfrom the second projection 716 along the circumference of the second end705 by 60 degrees. In further embodiments, the first and secondprojections 715,716 can be spaced apart at a multitude of distances.Moreover, in further alternative embodiments, the adjustable panninginsert 700 may also comprise third and fourth projections spaced apartalong the circumference of the first end 704. Instead of splines, pinsand holes may be used, or any other suitable mating means or mechanismsmay be used, for achieving the functions described with respect to theadjustable panning insert 700.

The adjustable panning insert 700 restricts the range of side-to-sidemotion of the support arm 1 through its interaction with the lowerbracket 34 of the second arm 30. In the exemplary embodiment depicted inFIGS. 8A-8G, the adjustable panning insert 700 is shown being retainedwithin the second end 22 of the first arm 20. In embodiments whereby thearm assembly does not include a first arm 20, the adjustable panninginsert 700 can be retained in a housing formed in the post 14 of thebase assembly 10. Referring to FIG. 8C, the housing formed in the secondend 22 of the first arm 20 may comprise a channel 24 formed in the upperend of the first arm 20. The channel 24 can define an outer wall 26 andan inner wall 27. A spline 29 having a plurality of teeth 29 a can bepositioned along the outer periphery of the inner wall 27 such that theteeth 29 a extend radially from the inner wall 27 and partially into thechannel 24 for mating with either the first or second splines 710,712 ofthe adjustable panning insert 700, depending on which side of thepanning insert 700 is facing up. The spline 29 can further comprise oneor more pockets 29 b adapted to receive and mate with the first andsecond projections 715,716 of the adjustable panning insert 700 when theadjustable panning insert 700 is oriented such that the second spline712 engages with the spline 29 formed in the channel 24 of the first arm20. Referring now to FIG. 8D, the lower bracket 34 of the second arm 30can comprise a groove 38 adjacent to the central chamber 37. The centralchamber 37 is adapted to house the upper portion of the connector shaft81. In embodiments where the friction cartridge assembly 300 isutilized, the central chamber 37 will also house the friction cartridgeassembly 300. The groove 38 is adapted to receive the first and secondprojections 715,716 of the adjustable panning insert 700. A stop 39 canbe positioned along the groove path of the groove 38. In the embodimentdepicted in FIG. 8D, the stop 39 is positioned within the anteriorportion 38 a of the groove 38 proximate to the anterior side 34 a of thelower bracket 34, although in alternative embodiments the stop 39 can bepositioned at other locations along the groove path, such as within theposterior portion 38 p of the groove 38 proximate to the posterior side34 p of the lower bracket 34. The channel 24 and the groove 38 each maybe annular, ring-shaped, oval-shaped, or any other suitable shape toachieve the functions described herein.

In operation, a user can elect the preferred range of side-to-sidemotion of the support arm 1 by adjusting the orientation of theadjustable panning insert 700 relative to its housing formed in theupper end of the first arm 20. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 8A-8Band 8E-8G, the first projection 715 is spaced apart from the secondprojection 716 along the circumference of the second end 705 byapproximately 90° (as measured relative to the center of the adjustablepanning insert 700) along the circumference of the adjustable panninginsert 700, thereby providing a user three swivel settings: 90°, 180°,and 360° rotation. FIG. 8G is a top view of the adjustable panninginsert 700 depicting the first and second projections 715,716 spacedapart by approximately 90°, with the stop 39 being transposed in variouspositions along the circumference of the adjustable panning insert toshow the possible positioning of the adjustable panning insert'sprojections relative to the stop 39 depending on the orientation of theadjustable panning insert 700 and the horizontal positioning of the armassembly 20,30.

Referring to FIGS. 8A-8B, the adjustable panning insert 700 ispositioned in a first orientation which will allow the second arm 30 torotate 360° relative to the first arm 20. In this first orientation, thesecond male spline 712 will engage with the female spline 29 formed inthe channel 24 of the first arm 20, with the one or more pockets 29 breceiving and housing the first and second projections 715,716 of theadjustable panning insert 700. In this arrangement, the first end 704 ofthe adjustable panning insert 700—which lacks a projection—will notengage the stop 39 in the groove 38 of the second arm's lower bracket34, thereby allowing 360° rotation. Referring now to FIGS. 8E-8F, theadjustable panning insert 700 is positioned in a second orientationwhich will only allow the second arm 30 to rotate 90° relative to thefirst arm 20. In this second orientation, the first male spline 710 willengage with the female spline 29 formed in the channel 24 of the firstarm 20, while the first and second projections 715,716 of the adjustablepanning insert 700 will protrude into the groove 38 of the second arm'slower bracket 34. In this second orientation, the adjustable panninginsert is seated in the housing such that the protrusions are proximateto the anterior side of the base assembly. As the second arm 30 isrotated in a first direction relative to the first arm 20, the stop 39will engage the first projection 715 after approximately 45° of travel(as measured from a starting position directly facing the user) andprohibit further panning in the first direction. Similarly, as thesecond arm 30 is rotated in a second direction relative to the first arm20, the stop 39 will engage the second projection 716 afterapproximately 45° of travel (as measured from a starting positiondirectly facing the user) and prohibit further panning in the seconddirection. In a further embodiment, a user may position the adjustablepanning insert 700 in a third orientation to allow the second arm 30 torotate 180° relative to the first arm 20. Starting from the orientationdepicted in FIGS. 8E-8F, this third orientation may be achieved byrotating the adjustable panning insert 700 about its central axis 180°in the horizontal (i.e., radial) plane and then re-seating the firstmale spline 710 into engagement with the female spline 29 of the firstarm 20. As the second arm 30 is rotated in a first direction relative tothe first arm 20, the stop 39 will engage the first projection 715 afterapproximately 90° of travel (as measured from a starting positiondirectly facing the user) and prohibit further panning in the firstdirection. Similarly, as the second arm 30 is rotated in a seconddirection relative to the first arm 20, the stop 39 will engage thesecond projection 716 after approximately 90° of travel (as measuredfrom a starting position directly facing the user) and prohibit furtherpanning in the second direction.

The adjustable panning insert 700 may be a ring-shaped, hollow cylinderhaving an outer wall 701, an inner wall 702, a first end 704, and asecond end 705. The adjustable panning insert 700 further defines aradial plane and a longitudinal plane, The inner wall 702 can comprise afirst male spline 710 and a second male spline 712 positioned adjacentto one another along the surface of the inner wall 702 and eachcomprising teeth 714 extending inward from the inner wall 702.

Whereas, in the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 8A-8G, the adjustablepanning insert 700 is shown having first and second male splines 710,712positioned along the inner wall 702, in alternative embodiments thefirst and second male splines 710,712 may be positioned along the outerwall of the adjustable panning insert 700. In such alternativeembodiments, the female spline 29 would be positioned along the innerperiphery of the outer wall 26 such that the teeth 29 a extend laterallyfrom the outer wall 26 and partially into the channel 24 for mating witheither the first or second male splines 710,712 of the adjustablepanning insert 700. In further alternative embodiments, the first andsecond male splines 710,712 may be replaced with one or moreprojections, while the female spline 29 may be replaced with one or moreslots adapted to mate with the one or more projections. While theforegoing description illustrates the adjustable panning insertfunctionality using splines, projections, and pockets, any otheracceptable means or mechanism for temporarily mating the panning insert700 with the groove 38 can be used, including but not limited to thefollowing: a ratchet and pawl; a rack and pinion or other mating gears;one or more pins mated to one or more holes, etc.

Referring still to FIGS. 8A-8F, certain embodiments of the adjustablesupport arm may utilize a bearing 720 positioned adjacent to the innerwall 27 of the channel 24 formed in the second end 22 of the first arm20. The bearing 720 functions to operatively engage the connector shaft81 to reduce the amount of force required to adjust the horizontal(i.e., side-to-side) positioning of the second arm 30. In one exemplaryembodiment, the bearing 720 is an angular contact bearing having innerand outer ring raceways that are displaced relative to each other in thedirection of the bearing axis, thereby simultaneously accommodatingradial and axial loads. However, other bearing types may be utilized.

Referring now to FIGS. 9A-9C and 13B, the mounting plate 44 ofarticulating joint 40 can comprise a fastening mechanism for easyremoval and attachment of a mounted accessory or accessory adapter(e.g., an electronic display, keyboard, paper holder, laptop holder,tablet holder, phone holder, light, or other object) to the support arm1. In FIGS. 9A-9C and 13B, an exemplary embodiment of the accessoryfastening mechanism 400 is depicted. The accessory fastening mechanism400 can comprise spring-loaded latch 410 and a hook 420. In oneexemplary embodiment, the spring-loaded latch 410 can comprise a clasp412 and a button 414, with the clasp 412 protruding from the front sideof the mounting plate 44 and the button 414 protruding from the rearside of the mounting plate 44. A spring 411 (see FIG. 13B) may bepositioned within the a cavity formed in the mounting plate 44 and mayoperatively engage the spring-loaded latch 410 to bias it downwardrelative to the center of the mounting plate 44. In the exemplaryembodiment depicted in FIGS. 9A-9C and 13B, the spring-loaded latch 410is positioned within a cut-out 46 formed in the lower portion 45 of themounting plate 44, and the hook 420 protrudes from the front side of theupper portion 47 of the mounting plate 44. In alternative embodiments,the spring-loaded latch 410 can be attached at various portions of themounting plate 44, including but not limited to the upper portion 47 ofthe mounting plate 44, while the hook 420 can be attached at variouspositions of the mounting plate 44, including but not limited to thelower portion 45 of the mounting plate 44. A person of ordinary skill inthe art would appreciate that the locations of the latch and hook canvary, and multiple latches and hooks can be used, to allow for the quickrelease function described herein. Further, the hook(s) and latch(es)can be of any suitable shape to achieve the intended function describedherein.

In operation, a user can utilize the accessory fastening mechanism 400to selectively remove and re-attach the accessory bracket assembly 50 tothe mounting plate 44 of the articulating joint 40. To attach theaccessory bracket assembly 50, a user may first couple the hook 420 tothe upper portion of the central bracket 51 by tilting the bracket'supper portion towards the bracket assembly 50 and extending the hook 420into the upper opening 53 of the central bracket 51. Next, the user maybring the lower portion of the central bracket 51 into a positionadjacent the spring-loaded latch 410 and may or may not lift the springloaded latch 410 by lifting up on the button 414. Then, the user canbring the lower portion of the central bracket 51 into a positionadjacent the lower portion of the mounting plate 44, which will causethe clasp 412 to extend into the lower opening 52 of the central bracket51. If the user lifted the spring loaded latch 410, upon releasing thebutton 414, the clasp 412 can engage the lower portion of the centralbracket 51 to secure the accessory bracket assembly 50 to the mountingplate 44. If the user did not lift the spring loaded latch 410, theclasp 412 will be forced to accommodate the lower opening 52 of thecentral bracket 51 through compression of the spring 411. To remove theaccessory bracket assembly 50, the user can reverse the foregoingprocess. Specifically, the user can lift up on the button 414 anddisengage the clasp 412 from the lower portion of the central bracket51. The user can then detach the hook 420 to the upper portion of thecentral bracket 51.

Referring now to FIGS. 10A-10B, an exemplary embodiment of an accessorybracket assembly 50 having mounts or mounting pieces for attachingsecondary accessories to the adjustable support arm 1 is shown. Theaccessory bracket assembly 50 can comprise any combination of a topmount 510, a right mount 520, a bottom mount 530, and a left mount 540each attached to the frame 57 of the accessory bracket assembly 50. Themounts or mounting pieces may be tubular in shape or of any othersuitable shape to achieve the functions described herein. Theaccessories that couple with the mounts or mounting pieces can eithercouple directly or indirectly to the mounts via temporary fasteners. Afirst accessory support 575 can be coupled to the top and bottom mounts510,530, while a second accessory support 576 can be coupled to theright and left mounts 520,540. The first and second accessory supports575,576 may comprise U-shaped tubing with diameters slightly smallerthan the inner diameter of the tubular mounts, thus allowing the firstand second accessory supports 575,576 to be coupled to the mounts510,520,530,540 by sliding the ends of the first and second accessorysupports 575,576 into the hollow openings of the mounts. In alternativeembodiments, the accessory supports 575,576 can be linear tubing (e.g.,see FIGS. 10C-10E) or any other shaped body capable of coupling to themounts 510,520,530,540. Secondary accessories, such as paper holders,lights, electronic displays, keyboards, laptop holders, tablet holders,phone holders, and other accessories can then be attached to theaccessory supports 575,576 using fasteners or brackets known in the art.

Alternative embodiments showing a variety of exemplary accessory supportconfigurations are depicted in FIGS. 10C-10E such as a handle, anearphone or headset holder or mount, and a side panel, tablet holder, orpaper tray holder.

Referring now to FIGS. 11A-11C, alternative embodiments of the accessorybracket assembly are depicted. As shown in FIG. 11A, the accessorybracket assembly 50 may comprise a horizontal crossbar assembly 591attached to the joint 40. As shown in FIG. 11B, the accessory bracketassembly 50 may comprise a vertical crossbar assembly 592 attached tothe joint 40. As shown in FIG. 11C, one or more accessory supports575,576 may be attached to either the horizontal or vertical crossbarassemblies 591, 592 at the sides, top, or bottom, as applicable giventhe crossbar configuration.

Many modifications and other embodiments of the inventions set forthherein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which theseinventions pertain having the benefit of the teaching presented in theforegoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is tobe understood that the inventions are not to be limited to the specificembodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments areintended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a genericand descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

What is claimed is:
 1. An adjustable support arm comprising: a) a baseassembly; and b) an arm assembly releasably coupled to the baseassembly; c) an adjustable panning insert positioned between the armassembly and the base assembly, wherein the adjustable panning insertcomprises an outer wall, an inner wall, a first end, a second end, andwherein the adjustable panning insert further comprises: first andsecond splines positioned in a stacked orientation around the inner wallof the adjustable panning insert; and first and second projectionsextending from the second end of the adjustable panning insert, whereinthe first projection is spaced apart from the second projection.
 2. Theadjustable support arm of claim 1, wherein the base assembly comprises ahousing adapted to receive the adjustable panning insert, the housingcomprising: a) a channel formed in an upper end of the housing, thechannel defining an outer wall and an inner wall; and b) a spline havinga plurality of teeth and one or more pockets, wherein the spline ispositioned along an outer periphery of the inner wall such that theplurality of teeth extend laterally from the inner wall and partiallyinto the channel for mating with either the first or second splines ofthe adjustable panning insert, and wherein the one or more pockets areadapted to receive and mate with the first and second projections of theadjustable panning insert.
 3. The adjustable support arm of claim 2,wherein the arm assembly comprises: a) a central chamber; and b) agroove adjacent to the central chamber and having an anterior portionand a posterior portion, and c) a stop positioned within the groove. 4.The adjustable support arm of claim 3, wherein the adjustable panninginsert is coupled to the housing of the base assembly in an orientationselected from the group consisting of: a) A first orientation defined bythe second spline and the one or more pockets of the adjustable panninginsert being mated to the spline formed in the channel of the baseassembly such that the first and second projections of the adjustablepanning insert extend into the one or more pockets of the spline formedin the housing of the base assembly; b) A second orientation defined bythe first spline of the adjustable panning insert being mated to thespline formed in the channel of the base assembly housing such that thefirst and second projections of the adjustable panning insert extendinto the groove; and c) A third orientation defined by the first splineof the adjustable panning insert being mated to the spline formed in thechannel of the base assembly such that the first and second projectionsof the adjustable panning insert extend into the posterior portion ofthe groove.
 5. The adjustable support arm of claim 4, wherein the stopis positioned within the anterior portion of the groove.
 6. Theadjustable support arm of claim 4, wherein the stop is positioned withinthe posterior portion of the annular groove.
 7. The adjustable supportarm of claim 4, wherein the first projection is spaced apart from thesecond projection along a circumference of the second end of theadjustable panning insert by approximately 90° as measured in a firstdirection along the circumference.
 8. The adjustable support arm ofclaim 4, wherein the base assembly comprises a base plate adapted to bepositioned on a top of a work surface, a post extending upward from thebase plate, a clamp bracket attached to the base plate and extendingbelow the work surface, and a screw threadingly engaged with the clampbracket.
 9. The adjustable support arm of claim 8, wherein the housingis formed in an upper end of the post of the base assembly.
 10. Theadjustable support arm of claim 9, wherein the arm assembly comprises adynamic arm, wherein the dynamic arm comprises a parallelogram linkagehaving a first end pivotally attached to a lower bracket and a secondend pivotally attached to an upper bracket.
 11. The adjustable supportarm of claim 10, wherein the central chamber and the groove are formedin the lower bracket of the dynamic arm.
 12. The adjustable support armof claim 4, wherein the adjustable support arm further comprises aconnector shaft for connecting the arm assembly to the base assembly,wherein a first end of the connector shaft is positioned within acentral bore of the base assembly, and wherein a second end of theconnector shaft is positioned within the central chamber of the armassembly.
 13. The adjustable support arm of claim 12, wherein theadjustable support arm further comprises a quick-release joint forreleasably connecting the arm assembly to the base assembly, thequick-release joint comprising: a) a latch comprising a protrusion; b)an axle extending through an aperture formed in the latch to pivotallyconnect the latch to the base assembly, the axle defining a fulcrumabout which the latch pivots; c) a spring for biasing the protrusioninto engagement with an indentation formed in the first end of theconnector shaft.
 14. The adjustable support arm of claim 13, wherein theadjustable support arm further comprises a bearing positioned within thehousing of the base assembly and operatively engaging the connectorshaft.
 15. The adjustable support arm of claim 14, wherein theadjustable support arm further comprises an articulating joint connectedto the arm assembly, the articulating joint comprising: a) a swivel ringpivotally attached to the arm assembly; b) a tilt ring attached to theswivel ring; and c) a mounting plate pivotally attached to the tiltring, the mounting plate further comprising a fastening mechanism,wherein the fastening mechanism comprises: a spring-loaded latchpositioned within a cut-out formed in a lower portion of the mountingplate; and a hook protruding from a front side of an upper portion ofthe mounting plate.
 16. The adjustable support arm of claim 15, whereinthe adjustable support arm further comprises an accessory bracketassembly releasably attached to the mounting plate of the articulatingjoint, wherein the accessory bracket assembly comprises: a) a centralbracket; b) a frame disposed around the central frame and attachedthereto; c) a first mounting piece attached to the frame; and d) anaccessory support having a first end coupled to the first mountingpiece.
 17. An adjustable support arm comprising an arm assembly, the armassembly comprising: a) a base mounted to a work surface; b) a first armcomprising a first end and a second end, wherein the first end iscoupled to the base, wherein the second end of the first arm comprises ahousing, the housing comprising: a channel formed in the second end ofthe first arm, the channel defining an outer wall and an inner wall; anda spline having a plurality of teeth and one or more pockets, whereinthe housing spline is positioned along an outer periphery of the innerwall such that the plurality of teeth extend laterally from the innerwall and partially into the channel; c) a second arm comprising a firstend, a second end, and a parallelogram linkage and being mated to thesecond end of the first arm, d) a mounting plate mated to the second endof the second arm; e) an accessory bracket assembly attached to themounting plate; f) a removable, adjustable panning insert positionedbetween the first arm and the second arm for limiting rotation of thesecond arm about an axis formed between the first and second arms,wherein the adjustable panning insert comprises: first and secondsplines positioned in a stacked orientation around an inner wall of theadjustable panning insert and first and second projections extendingfrom a second end of the adjustable panning insert, wherein the firstprojection is spaced apart from the second projection.
 18. Theadjustable support arm of claim 17, wherein a lower bracket of thesecond arm comprises: a) a central chamber; and b) a groove adjacent tothe central chamber and having an anterior portion and a posteriorportion, and c) a stop positioned within the groove.
 19. The adjustablesupport arm of claim 18, wherein the adjustable panning insert iscoupled to the housing of the first arm in an orientation selected fromthe group consisting of: a) A first orientation defined by the secondspline and the one or more pockets of the adjustable panning insertbeing mated to the spline formed in the channel of the first arm; b) Asecond orientation defined by the first spline of the adjustable panninginsert being mated to the spline formed in the channel of the first armsuch that the first and second projections of the adjustable panninginsert extend into the anterior portion of the annular groove formed inthe lower bracket of the second arm; and c) A third orientation definedby the first spline of the adjustable panning insert being mated to thespline formed in the channel of the first arm such that the first andsecond projections of the adjustable panning insert extend into theposterior portion of the groove formed in the lower bracket of thesecond arm.
 20. The adjustable support arm of claim 19, wherein the stopis positioned within the anterior portion of the annular groove.
 21. Theadjustable support arm of claim 19, wherein the stop is positionedwithin the posterior portion of the annular groove.
 22. The adjustablesupport arm of claim 19, wherein the first projection is spaced apartfrom the second projection along a circumference of the second end ofthe adjustable panning insert by approximately 90° as measured in afirst direction along the circumference.
 23. The adjustable support armof claim 19, wherein the adjustable support arm further comprises aconnector shaft for connecting the second arm to the first arm, whereina first end of the connector shaft is positioned within the channel ofthe first arm, and wherein a second end of the connector shaft ispositioned within the central chamber of the lower bracket of the secondarm.
 24. The adjustable support arm of claim 23, wherein the adjustablesupport arm further comprises a quick-release joint for releasablyconnecting the second arm to the first arm, the quick-release jointcomprising: a) a latch comprising a protrusion; b) an axle extendingthrough an aperture formed in the latch to pivotally connect the latchto the second end of the first arm, the axle defining a fulcrum aboutwhich the latch pivots; c) a spring for biasing the protrusion intoengagement with an indentation formed in the first end of the connectorshaft.
 25. The adjustable support arm of claim 24, wherein theadjustable support arm further comprises an articulating joint connectedto the arm assembly, the articulating joint comprising: a) a swivel ringpivotally attached to the arm assembly; b) a tilt ring attached to theswivel ring; and c) a mounting plate pivotally attached to the tiltring, the mounting plate further comprising a fastening mechanism,wherein the fastening mechanism comprises: a spring-loaded latchpositioned within a cut-out formed in a lower portion of the mountingplate; and a hook protruding from a front side of an upper portion ofthe mounting plate.
 26. The adjustable support arm of claim 25, whereinthe adjustable support arm further comprises an accessory bracketassembly releasably attached to the mounting plate of the articulatingjoint, wherein the accessory bracket assembly comprises: a) a centralbracket; b) a frame disposed around the central frame and attachedthereto; c) first and second mounting pieces attached to opposing sidesof the frame; and d) an accessory support having a first end coupled tothe first mounting piece and a second end coupled to the second mountingpiece.